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Who here has ever felt a little anxiety when you’re on a plane? If you’re anything like me, there might always be that moment (or, let’s be real, moments) when anxious thoughts take over.

Moving to Australia a few years ago meant coming to terms with my very real fear of flying long distances. The typical journey from the West Coast, USA to Brisbane, Australia is between 12 and 13 hours. Yes, that’s 12+ hours in a tiny metal tube flying at speeds that are hard to imagine over vast seas.

Some flights across the Pacific are even longer. For example, Sydney to Dallas (Caleb had to do this one once) is around 15 hours!

Even though I love traveling, there’s always that chance that during take-off, or landing, or in-between I will get nervous and look for a hand to hold, even if it’s my own.

I talked to my mom about it before my first flight over to Australia and she simply said,

“Laura, we do not live lives of fear.”

That’s enough to convict you. And it’s so true! So what I decided I needed to do was combine this belief with some practical de-stressors so that my mind and my body could be on the same page.

I have read many articles, asked, friends, and tried many tactics to try to calm pre-flight and in-flight nerves. Below are a few suggestions, but also, know that I am by no means a pro at any of these yet! Caleb can attest to the many times I have been in near shambles over the slightest bump. But what I have found is that these practices can make it a little easier for me.

Please note, I am not a medical professional. My tips are only suggestions based on experience and you should consider consulting your doctor with any health risks or concerns you have.

Tips for Dealing with Flight Anxiety

• Before Take-off
  1. Call a family member/friend and chat for a while. I find this can help take my mind off what’s going on with the plane.
  2. Read a few chapters of your favorite novel.
  3. Take some walking laps in the terminal near your gate. Tire your body out a little so it’s easier to relax when you sit down.
  4. Look at photos or inspiration for your destination. This helps you remember why it’s worth the hassle of the airport!
  5. Have a light snack, a ginger ale or water, and use the restroom.
• During the Flight
  1. Use a neck pillow, earplugs, and an eye mask. Even on those short, 2-hour flights, these simple comforts can really help.
  2. Color. Whether it’s with crayons, colored pencils, or just a pen, the motion of creating something with your hands is distracting and fulfilling. Coloring books like this one and this one are always fun.
  3. Listen to music on your mobile device. Whatever reminds you of wonderful times or soothes you is what we’re going for here. Just be sure you’re listening at a normal level, being respectful of those around you.
  4. Watch a movie. This option really helps pass the time. I feel no shame for watching 3 movies on a long flight!
  5. When it’s safe to, stand up and walk around the aisles a couple of times.
  6. In the moments things seem scary, say a prayer. Talking with Jesus is one of the best ways I know to cope with immediate stress.
  7. Talk with a friend or partner you’re traveling with. Pull your tray table down and play a card game or just ask them to tell you a story to distract you.
  8. Drink a ginger ale with ice. Yes, this is the second time I’ve mentioned ginger ale. But ginger helps settle your stomach and ice chips can keep your jaw busy for a while too.
  9. Notice the flight attendants. Even when things get a little bumpy up there, the attendants are usually going about business as normal. If they need to sit down per Captain’s orders, notice how controlled and calm they are. Noticing the way they handle in-flight stress has been major for me.
  10. Roll with it. It’s OKAY if some anxiety slips out, even if you’re flying solo. If you’re with someone, don’t feel ashamed to let them see you get anxious. Everyone knows that flying can be nerve-racking, so ask for grace and always give it back x2.

Do you have tips or helpful habits to deal with flight fears? Post to my comments below to share in the community 🙂